The bronze bowls from Ban Don Ta Phet, Thailand: An enigma of prehistoric metallurgy

Abstract

Remains of 3rd-2nd century B.C. Iron Age bronze bowls from Ban Don Ta Phet, Thailand, are examined. Metallographic analysis indicates a manufacturing technique involving casting mechanical hot-working, heat treatment and quenching, followed by polishing on a wheel or lathe. X-ray fluorescence found a very high tin bronze (23%). Comparison to bowls from other comparable sites are made. -- AATA